Ortstockhaus – Alpine Hut & Ortstock Massif Base

The Ortstockhaus is a classic mountain hut located above Braunwald, in the Glarus Alps, directly beneath the imposing rock walls of the Ortstock massif. Known for its dramatic limestone scenery and demanding approaches, it serves as a base for strong alpine hikers, scramblers, and climbers, rather than casual walkers. The hut offers a traditional, no-frills alpine experience in a serious mountain setting.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Braunwald / Ortstock massif, Canton of Glarus, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 1,776 m

  • Type: Mountain hut (seasonally served; non-SAC)

  • Capacity: Approx. 45–50 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: usually June to October (weather-dependent)

  • Management: Local mountain hut association

• Access & Approaches

  Reaching the Ortstockhaus is physically demanding and requires confidence in alpine terrain.

  • Main approach: From Braunwald (via cable car from Linthal)

  • Hiking time: ~3.5–5 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~900–1,100 m

  • Terrain: Steep alpine paths, scree, exposed limestone sections

  • Difficulty: T3–T4

  Sure-footedness and a head for exposure are essential, especially in wet conditions.

• Facilities & Comfort

  Comfort is traditional and functional.

  • Dormitory-style sleeping with mattresses and blankets

  • Meals during the guarded season

  • Drinking water available

  • Basic toilets

  • Limited electricity

  The hut is designed for overnight recovery rather than leisure stays.

• Food & Atmosphere

  The atmosphere is focused and distinctly alpine.

  • Simple, hearty Swiss mountain cuisine

  • Clientele mainly composed of strong hikers, climbers, and alpinists

  • Evenings are quiet, centered on route planning and early starts

  Crowds are uncommon due to the demanding access.

• Routes & Alpine Context

  The Ortstockhaus is ideally positioned for:

  • Ascents of peaks in the Ortstock group (scrambling and climbing routes)

  • Demanding alpine hikes in the Glarus Alps

  • Limestone climbing routes on surrounding walls

  • Multi-day traverses linking huts around Braunwald

  It is not intended for glacier travel or beginner-friendly routes.

• When to Go

  • Best season: July to September

  • Conditions: Limestone becomes slippery when wet

  • Main risks: Exposure, rockfall, thunderstorms

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Experienced alpine hikers

  • Scramblers and climbers

  • Visitors seeking dramatic terrain and a traditional hut

  • Not suitable for beginners or casual hikers

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 1,776 m, the Ortstockhaus offers one of the most dramatic non-glaciated alpine settings in the Glarus Alps. Its position beneath towering limestone walls, combined with a demanding approach and focused clientele, makes it ideal for those who value serious terrain, solitude, and classic alpine character over convenience.